Under the veil of night, Cassiopeia, Croasia, and Lin made their way stealthily towards the palace of Cassiana. Utilizing the little-known underground passage that led directly to the palace training grounds, they avoided the eyes of any lurking enemies. The passage, once a secret escape route for the royal family, now served as their discreet entrance in this time of crisis.
Emerging from the shadows of the tunnel, the trio was met with a scene of desolation. The training grounds, once bustling with activity, lay eerily silent.
As they made their way towards the main palace, whispers and murmurs began to spread among the civilians who had taken refuge there. Word of the Empress's arrival spread like wildfire, and soon a crowd had gathered, their faces etched with a mix of fear and hope.
